Live Scan & Background Check Guide
The Live Scan & Background Check category covers everything you need to know about fingerprint-based background screening—including Live Scan fingerprinting, FBI background checks, and traditional ink card fingerprinting.
Live Scan Fingerprinting
Live Scan is a digital, inkless method for capturing fingerprints electronically and submitting them directly to state or federal agencies such as the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI. It is widely used for employment, licensing, certifications, and legal requirements. Live Scan offers fast results, greater accuracy, and cleaner processing compared to traditional ink methods.
Common uses include jobs in education, healthcare, government, and more.
FBI Background Checks
FBI background checks use your fingerprints to search national criminal databases for any history or records. These checks are often required for immigration, travel, adoption, or employment that involves federal clearance. Both Live Scan and ink card fingerprints can be submitted for FBI checks, depending on the agency’s requirements.
Ink Card Fingerprinting
Ink card fingerprinting, also known as FBI FD-258 cards, is the traditional method of rolling inked fingers onto a paper card. This method is still accepted for certain state or federal applications, out-of-state licensing, and when electronic submission is not an option. Ink cards are also used for mailing fingerprints to agencies that do not accept digital submissions.
Which Method Should You Use?
- Live Scan: Fast, digital, and preferred for most California and federal background checks.
- FBI Background Check: Required for federal-level clearance, immigration, and some travel or licensing needs.
- Ink Card: Best for out-of-state, federal, or international applications where Live Scan is not accepted.
Explore All Live Scan & Background Check Articles
Browse our complete collection of articles on Live Scan fingerprinting, FBI background checks, and ink card fingerprinting:
